Little Prince Hibiscus

Little Prince is a compact, cold-hardy hybrid hibiscus grown for large, richly colored flowers and maple-shaped foliage. Mauve-to-purple flowers with red and pink tones open from midsummer through fall, while the plant stays near 2½ feet tall and wide. ## Landscape role Its upright, uniformly branched habit makes Little Prince useful as an accent or in a sunny perennial border. The cultivar bears large flowers, dark green maple-like leaves, and is listed for USDA zones 4–9 by [Lincoln Park Zoo](https://www.lpzoo.org/plants/little-prince-hardy-hibiscus/). The [plant patent record](https://patents.justia.com/patent/PP23466) identifies the selection as a cross between Hibiscus moscheutos and H. coccineus and documents its compact size and distinctive purple, red, and pink flowers. ## Growing conditions Grow in full sun to partial shade with medium to wet soil. The large blooms are best shown where they can be viewed from paths or seating, and the compact form fits smaller perennial beds. This is a herbaceous perennial that returns from its roots after winter. ## Seasonal display Flowers begin in summer and continue into fall, with a long succession of blooms on the upright stems. The pollen-bearing stamens attract bees and other pollinators. ## Maintenance Remove old stems after they die back, then wait for new shoots before clearing the planting in spring. New growth may begin later than nearby perennials, so avoid disturbing the crown while it is dormant.